Director of Wine & Beverage | Award Winning Brand | NYC

Job Description

Job Description

An award-winning, chef-driven hospitality group is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Wine & Beverage to lead and elevate the beverage programs across its acclaimed collection of restaurants. This is an exceptional opportunity for a hospitality professional with a deep passion for wine, beverage innovation, and guest experience. The ideal candidate is both a strategic leader and hands-on operator, capable of curating world-class wine programs while mentoring teams, driving financial performance, and creating memorable beverage experiences that complement exceptional cuisine. Working closely with executive leadership, culinary teams, and restaurant management, the Director of Wine & Beverage will oversee all aspects of the company's wine and beverage strategy, ensuring consistency, innovation, and operational excellence across multiple concepts.

Key Responsibilities

Wine & Beverage Strategy

• Lead the vision, development, and execution of the company's wine and beverage programs across multiple restaurant concepts.
• Curate and maintain dynamic wine lists that reflect each restaurant's identity while supporting overall business objectives.
• Develop seasonal beverage initiatives, wine pairings, and specialty programs that enhance the guest experience.
• Evaluate emerging wine regions, producers, spirits, and beverage trends to keep programs innovative and relevant.

Purchasing & Financial Management

• Oversee beverage purchasing, vendor relationships, and distributor partnerships.
• Manage beverage inventory, pricing strategies, and cost controls to maximize profitability while maintaining exceptional quality.
• Analyze sales performance, beverage mix, and inventory metrics to identify opportunities for growth and operational improvements.
• Negotiate with suppliers and maintain strong industry relationships.

Leadership & Team Development

• Recruit, mentor, and develop Sommeliers and beverage leaders throughout the organization.
• Create and implement ongoing wine and beverage education programs for both management and front-of-house teams.
• Foster a culture of hospitality, curiosity, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Partner with restaurant leadership to ensure consistent execution of beverage standards across all locations.

Operations & Service Excellence

• Ensure the highest standards of wine service, beverage execution, cellar organization, and inventory management.
• Support restaurant openings, beverage program launches, and operational initiatives across the company.
• Maintain beverage standards, systems, and best practices while continuously identifying opportunities for improvement.
• Work closely with culinary leadership to create thoughtful food and beverage pairings that elevate the overall dining experience.

Guest Experience

• Champion exceptional hospitality through personalized wine and beverage experiences.
• Build lasting relationships with guests while creating memorable dining experiences.
• Represent the beverage program at private events, wine dinners, and industry functions when appropriate.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience overseeing wine and beverage programs within an upscale, fine dining, or Michelin-caliber restaurant group.
• Extensive knowledge of wine, spirits, beer, sake, and beverage program management.
• Experience managing beverage purchasing, inventory, vendor relationships, and financial performance.
• Strong business acumen with experience analyzing beverage costs, margins, and profitability.
• Exceptional leadership, communication, and team development skills.
• Passion for hospitality, education, and creating outstanding guest experiences.
• Court of Master Sommeliers, WSET, or other advanced beverage certifications are highly preferred but not required.
• Flexibility to travel between restaurant locations and work evenings or weekends as business needs require.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive base salary plus performance-based incentive opportunities
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid parental leave
• Commuter benefits
• Employee wellness program
• Discounted gym membership
• Dining privileges
• Opportunity to help shape the beverage vision of an award-winning, chef-driven hospitality group